Introduction

The Twin Cities, where Minneapolis and St Paul are the anchors, plus a whole bunch of surrounding communities, have a neighborhood that will suit just about anyone looking to move here. Residents can pick from all sorts of places - urban, suburban, or residential areas with minimal traffic - on the basis of walkability, public transport links, type of housing, the local vibe, and how close they are to parks and green spaces.

The median price for a home across the Minneapolis–St. Paul Metro has now gone above $400,000. That shows just how keen people are on living in this area, even though it does make things pretty tough for people who are only just starting out on the home-owning journey. With a steady supply of homes coming onto the market for both rent and buy, combined with steady growth in population across the metro, this is actually a pretty good time for first-time home buyers and renters to take a closer look at the Twin Cities neighborhoods and see where they fit best.

Key Takeaways

• The Twin Cities is one big metropolitan area with a whole load of different neighborhoods, they've got walkable urban bits in Minneapolis and St Paul, and then quieter suburban areas where the pace is slower.

• The median price of a home has gone over $400,000 - that's a pretty big number - which says a lot about just how much people want to live here, but at the same time, it's a real challenge for a lot of people who are just starting out on the housing ladder.

• Areas like Downtown Minneapolis and Downtown St Paul are still really popular with people who want to be right in the heart of the action - you know, close to the shops, the restaurants, and the public transport links.

• A lot of the Twin Cities neighborhoods are real gems because they've got great schools, loads of parks and trails, are walkable, and also pretty easy to get to and from by car.

• This guide is going to give you the lowdown on all the best neighborhoods in the Twin Cities - we're talking about places that are vibrant and full of culture, but also super family-friendly and places that are just right for people who need to commute to work every day.

Table of Contents

1. North Loop - Minneapolis

2. Macalester‑Groveland - St. Paul

3. Lynnhurst & Linden Hills - Southwest Minneapolis

4. Longfellow & Nokomis Area - Southeast Minneapolis

5. Lowertown - St. Paul

6. Highland Park - St. Paul

7. Falcon Heights - Metro Suburb

8. Mendota Heights - Suburban Favourite

9. Plymouth - Suburban Family Community

10. Shoreview - Balanced Suburban Choice

11. Conclusion

1. North Loop - Minneapolis

North Loop is a pretty cool little neighborhood in Minneapolis - it's got a real urban vibe going on, and it's close to loads of local amenities. The area includes The Commons Park, Mississippi Riverfront Trails, Mill City Museum, and Target Field. Schools nearby include North Loop Elementary and Downtown School, and healthcare is available at Hennepin Healthcare Clinic – North Loop and Abbott Northwestern Hospital.

According to Realtor.com, the average rent for a place in North Loop is $2,495 per month - so if you're looking to rent, there's a pretty good chance you'll find something that suits. Of course, as with just about any inner city area, there is a bit of a crime problem going on in North Loop - it's not like the suburban areas, but it's still a bit higher than average. However, for people who are looking for a really lively city lifestyle and are happy to trade off a bit of safety for the convenience of being right in the heart of things, North Loop is a pretty great choice.

Why People Love It

• This area has great walkability and public transportation right on your doorstep.

• You can find restaurants, arts and entertainment just a short walk from your home.

• There's a real buzz of urban energy, and it's easy to hop on a bus or bike to local parks and key commuter routes.

2. Macalester‑Groveland - St. Paul

Macalester-Groveland: A cool and attractive neighborhood that's got it all. You get a nice balance of affordable homes and a strong community vibe going on here. The area includes Macalester College, Groveland Park, and the Lake Harriet Trail. Schools include Highwood Hills Elementary and St. Paul Academy, while healthcare options nearby include Regions Hospital and United Hospital.

According to Realtor.com, the average rent in Macalester-Groveland is a pretty tidy $2,325 per month. The crime rate is lower than the national average, making it a safe and appealing neighborhood. No wonder this is a hot choice for people who are after a friendly, easy-to-get-around community.

Why People Love It

• The homes here manage to balance a quiet street vibe with all the urban benefits you need.

• You've got local shops and restaurants on Grand Avenue within walking distance.

• This neighborhood has a strong sense of identity.

3. Lynnhurst & Linden Hills - Southwest Minneapolis

Lynnhurst & Linden Hills - 2 of Minneapolis’ top spots for homebuyers - are the kinds of neighborhoods that immediately catch your eye. They offer a mix of homes for different budgets and are well-known for their strong community vibe. The area includes Lake Harriet, Linden Hills Park, and Theodore Wirth Park. Schools in the neighborhoods include Lyndale Elementary, Lynnhurst Elementary, and South High School, while nearby healthcare facilities include Abbott Northwestern Hospital and Park Nicollet Clinic.

According to Realtor.com, the average rent in these areas is $3,000 a month. With its mix of family-friendly amenities, parks, good schools, and healthcare options, Lynnhurst & Linden Hills are ideal for anyone looking for a relaxed atmosphere with all the conveniences a person could want. Lynnhurst & Linden Hills are tops if you are looking for a nice, relaxed atmosphere with all the amenities a person could want.

Why People Love It

• The area has some lovely parks and picnic spots right by the lake.

• There's a great sense of community and walkability to be found here.

• Homes range from older, really beautifully restored properties to brand new builds - so there's definitely something for everyone.

4. Longfellow & Nokomis Area - Southeast Minneapolis

Longfellow & Nokomis, on the other hand, are a pair of popular neighborhoods that offer up affordable housing with a whole lot of charm & convenience. The area includes Minnehaha Park, Nokomis Community Center, and Lake Nokomis, providing plenty of outdoor and recreational options. Schools serving the neighborhoods include Longfellow Elementary, Wenonah Elementary, and Washburn High School, while healthcare facilities nearby include Hennepin County Medical Center and Park Nicollet Clinic.

According to Zillow - and for those who've actually checked - the average rent in the area is around $1,901 a month, which is quite appealing for renters looking for an affordable place to live in a lively city environment. The crime rate in the area is right where you'd expect: in the middle of the pack for an urban neighborhood - not great, not terrible, but just like most city areas.

Why People Love It

• If you like a laid-back neighborhood with good access to the city, then this is the place for you.

• The nearby lakes and green spaces are perfect for a weekend stroll - or for getting some exercise.

• The community here is always on the go, with plenty of events and coffee shops to keep you busy.

5. Lowertown - St. Paul

Lowertown St. Paul is a pretty cool place with a mix of modern apartments, converted lofts and character homes - it's really growing in popularity with people looking for a vibrant downtown lifestyle. Residents enjoy easy access to Mears Park, the Saint Paul Farmers’ Market, and the Fitzgerald Theatre, making it great for outdoor activities and community events. Schools nearby include Highland Park Elementary and Creative Arts Secondary School, and healthcare needs are covered by Regions Hospital and Park Nicollet Clinic.

According to Realtor.com - or at least, from what I've been able to dig up - the average rent in Lowertown is a pretty reasonable $1,650 a month. And like most urban areas, the crime rate in Lowertown is moderately high, though it's not like it's a bad neighborhood or anything. The upside is that Lowertown has a great balance of affordability, urban excitement and easy access to whatever amenities you might need - so it's no surprise that it's a popular choice for people who want to live in the midst of it all.

Why People Love It

• The local area has a really buzzing food and arts scene going on.

• The streets here are always lively - especially when it comes to community events. There are loads of great events throughout the year, from concerts to fairs.

• The public transport links to downtown are also excellent.

6. Highland Park - St. Paul

Highland Park in St Paul - that's a neighborhood people just love for all the right reasons. On the one hand, its beautiful homes and real sense of community make it the perfect place to put down roots. On the other hand, Residents have access to Highland Park Recreation Center, Hidden Falls Regional Park, and the Mississippi River Trail, as well as nearby schools like Highland Park Elementary, St. Paul Academy, and healthcare facilities such as Regions Hospital and HealthPartners Clinics.

Realtor.com reckons the average rental price in Highland Park is some 1,875 dollars a month, which is a pretty good option for renters because it's also a very family-friendly and well-connected neighborhood. The crime rate in Highland Park is relatively low, making it a pretty safe place to live. If you add to that its mix of lovely homes, variety of price points and low crime rate, Highland Park is an absolute top pick for anyone looking for a welcoming community with loads of amenities on hand.

Why People Love It

• If you're looking for a family-friendly community with a nice family atmosphere, then you'll love it here.

• It's a great spot if you want to be close to either Minneapolis or St Paul - both of the downtowns are within easy reach.

• The mix of older homes and newer builds is pretty cool, so there's a range of different houses to look around at.

7. Falcon Heights - Metro Suburb

Falcon Heights residents have access to the University of Minnesota St. Paul Campus, Como Park & Zoo, and the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, along with schools like Falcon Heights Elementary and St. Anthony Park Elementary, and nearby healthcare options such as Regions Hospital and HealthPartners Clinics.

According to Zillow, the average rent in Falcon Heights is a pretty reasonable $1,150 a month - a fact that makes it a pretty appealing place for people looking to get out of the hustle and bustle of city life. Crime in Falcon Heights is fairly run-of-the-mill for a smaller suburb in the Twin Cities - a moderate, generally lower rate of crime that doesn't seem to be any worse for being in this particular neighborhood. So, Falcon Heights makes for an ideal choice for people who want a safe and connected suburban community.

Why People Love It

• This area is all about convenience - you've got easy access to both of the downtowns.

• The housing prices are also generally more affordable than in some of the more central areas.

• Community is really key here - with loads of local parks and community events to get involved in.

8. Mendota Heights - Suburban Favourite

Mendota Heights, on the other hand, is the kind of place people really want to live, with lovely homes and a super family-friendly atmosphere to boot. Residents have access to Mendota Elementary School, Dakota Hills Middle School, and Saint Thomas Academy, as well as nearby healthcare options like HealthPartners Clinics and Mayo Clinic Health System, St. Paul. Recreational options include Hidden Falls Regional Park and the Mendota Heights Community Center, giving families plenty of outdoor and community amenities.

Zillow says the average rent in Mendota Heights is around $2,057 a month, which is probably pretty high because so many people are looking to rent in this super desirable area. The crime rate is also pretty low, a bit better even than you might expect in a typical suburban area. With the look of the homes, the family-friendly atmosphere and the low crime rate all going for it, Mendota Heights is a top pick for anyone after a safe, comfortable suburban lifestyle.

Why People Love It

• If you want to live in a really peaceful suburb that still has easy access to the metro, then this is a great spot.

• The regional connections are strong, so you should be able to get around easily.

• The property values are pretty well maintained, and there's a good range of community services to take advantage of.

9. Plymouth - Suburban Family Community

Plymouth is a favourite amongst families and individuals looking for a suburban home - and it's easy to see why. Residents have access to Plymouth Creek Elementary, Plymouth Middle School, and Plymouth Senior High School, all part of the highly rated Wayzata Public School District. Healthcare needs are covered by nearby facilities such as Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital – West Health Campus and North Memorial Health Hospital – Maple Grove. Activities to get a relaxed environment include Medicine Lake Regional Park, French Regional Park, and West Medicine Lake Park, providing lakes, trails, boat launches, playgrounds, and picnic areas for families and outdoor lovers alike.

Zillow says the average rent in Plymouth is around $2,050 a month, which is pretty reasonable considering the neighborhood is a suburban dream. The crime rate in Plymouth is generally lower than you'd find in an urban area. This is why Plymouth is such a great choice for people looking for a safe and welcoming community. It's got affordable homes, a low crime rate and a family-friendly vibe that just can't be beat.

Why People Love It

• This is a fantastic area if you love the outdoors and want a family-friendly place to live.

• There are loads of parks and open spaces to explore, and the community here is really supportive.

• You'll find a good balance between home ownership options and access to community services.

10. Shoreview - Balanced Suburban Choice

Shoreview is a pretty quiet and desirable neighborhood that offers a good range of affordable housing options. Residents have access to a strong public school system served primarily by the Mounds View Public School District and parts of the Roseville Area School District, including schools such as Island Lake Elementary, Turtle Lake Elementary, Emmet D. Williams Elementary, Mounds View High School, and Roseville Area High School. There are also private and special‑needs options like Oak Hill Montessori and St. Odilia School available nearby. Healthcare needs are covered by major facilities within a short drive, including St. John’s Hospital, Gillette Children’s Specialty Hospital, and Regions Hospital.

According to Zillow, you can expect to pay around $1,765 a month to rent a house in Shoreview. So if you're looking for a peaceful suburban lifestyle without breaking the bank, Shoreview is a pretty good bet. Crime-wise, Shoreview is pretty safe - though it's not completely perfect, the stats are pretty good for a city area.

Why People Love It

• For a great value spot with a load of good things on offer, this area is well worth a look.

• The facilities are all really well maintained, and you're just a short drive from the Minneapolis and St Paul downtowns.

Conclusion

The Twin Cities area isn't just one community - it's a patchwork of different neighborhoods and communities - each with its own unique character, lifestyle, and the type of housing you'll typically find there. So, if you like living in a walkable urban area with some green space and outdoor leisure options - or maybe a place with a mix of city life and nature on your doorstep - you'll be able to find a neighborhood that's a good fit for you in the Twin Cities area.

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in the Twin Cities

1. What are the best neighborhoods in the Twin Cities for families? 

Plymouth, Mendota Heights, and Highland Park (St. Paul) are widely considered the best options for families. Plymouth is a top suburban choice due to its access to the highly-rated Wayzata Public School District and extensive parks like French Regional Park. Mendota Heights offers a quiet, safety-focused community with excellent schools like Saint Thomas Academy, while Highland Park provides a balance of urban convenience and family-friendly residential streets.

2. Which Minneapolis neighborhoods are best for young professionals? 

North Loop is the premier choice for young professionals seeking an urban lifestyle. It offers high walkability to downtown Minneapolis, diverse dining options, and access to Target Field. For those preferring St. Paul, Lowertown offers a similar vibrant atmosphere with converted lofts, the Farmers’ Market, and easy access to public transit, all at a slightly more affordable price point.

3. What are the most affordable neighborhoods in Minneapolis and St. Paul? 

Based on average rental data, Falcon Heights is one of the most affordable options, with rents averaging around $1,150 per month, followed by Lowertown in St. Paul at roughly $1,650 per month. Shoreview also offers great value for a suburban setting, with family-sized homes renting for approximately $1,765, making it a budget-friendly alternative to pricier areas like Edina or Plymouth.

4. Is it safe to live in the Twin Cities? 

Yes, many suburbs and specific city neighborhoods in the Twin Cities are very safe. Mendota Heights, Shoreview, and Falcon Heights are known for having crime rates significantly lower than the national average. Within the city limits, Macalester-Groveland and Highland Park in St. Paul are noted for their safe, community-focused environments compared to busier downtown districts.

5. Which Twin Cities neighborhoods have the best walkability? 

North Loop (Minneapolis) and Macalester-Groveland (St. Paul) top the list for walkability. North Loop residents can walk to grocery stores, the Mississippi Riverfront, and work centers. Macalester-Groveland offers a more neighborhood-centric walkability, with easy foot access to the shops and restaurants along Grand Avenue and the Macalester College campus.